isolved vs Microsoft Project
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
isolved
isolved is an all-in-one HCM platform offering payroll, HR, benefits, and time tracking for small to mid-sized businesses. It is delivered through a network of local service partners providing personalized support.
Microsoft Project
Microsoft Project is the long-standing enterprise project management standard offering advanced scheduling, resource management, and portfolio tracking. Deep integration with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
Pros
- ✓Strong local service partner network
- ✓Good all-in-one HCM features
- ✓Solid compliance tools
- ✓Flexible configuration
- ✓Good for SMBs needing hands-on support
Cons
- ✗Interface feels dated
- ✗Quality can vary by service partner
- ✗Less self-serve than modern platforms
- ✗Reporting needs improvement
Pros
- ✓Industry standard for complex project scheduling
- ✓Powerful Gantt and resource management
- ✓Deep Microsoft 365 integration
- ✓Strong portfolio management
- ✓Trusted by enterprises globally
Cons
- ✗Steep learning curve
- ✗Expensive licensing
- ✗Feels dated compared to modern tools
- ✗Overkill for simple projects
- ✗Limited real-time collaboration
isolved vs Microsoft Project: Side by Side
| Factor | isolved | Microsoft Project |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Project Management |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | SMBs wanting full-service payroll and HR support through a local service partner network | Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration |
| Our Pick | — | — |
isolved Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓HR management
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓time tracking
- ✓talent management
- ✓compliance
Microsoft Project Features
- ✓Project scheduling
- ✓Gantt charts
- ✓resource management
- ✓task tracking
- ✓portfolio management
- ✓reporting
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose isolved if smbs wanting full-service payroll and hr support through a local service partner network. Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration.
Best For
SMBs wanting full-service payroll and HR support through a local service partner network
Best For
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration
Also Consider
If neither isolved nor Microsoft Project is the right fit, Multiplier is worth evaluating.
Multiplier
Startups and SMBs hiring internationally on a budget
From $40/contractor/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between isolved and Microsoft Project?
isolved is best for smbs wanting full-service payroll and hr support through a local service partner network. Microsoft Project is best for enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration.
Which is better, isolved or Microsoft Project?
Choose isolved if smbs wanting full-service payroll and hr support through a local service partner network. Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration.
How much does isolved cost?
Visit isolved website for current pricing.
How much does Microsoft Project cost?
Visit Microsoft Project website for current pricing.
Who should use isolved?
SMBs wanting full-service payroll and HR support through a local service partner network
Who should use Microsoft Project?
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration